Surgical First Assist (Per Diem)

About the Role

Health First is seeking a skilled and motivated Physician Assistant (PA) with a passion for Surgery to assist current and new surgeons in the Operating Room. This is a float opportunity to work with a mix of different surgeons and supporting cases across the organization, playing an integral role in the OR.

You will assist in a wide range of surgical procedures, manage elective and emergent cases, and serve as a surgical resource across four hospitals. This role offers hands-on experience, skill development, and exposure to a broad spectrum of surgical procedures across many specialties.

Responsibilities

• Provide acute, episodic outpatient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, consultation, and education as a certified Physician Assistant.
• Assist in a wide range of surgical procedures, including elective and emergent cases.
• Serve as a surgical resource across multiple hospitals.
• Perform health assessments, including physical and school health examinations.
• Interpret diagnostic testing and physical assessment findings to determine accurate differential diagnoses.
• Develop and implement plans of care consistent with established clinical protocols.
• Establish appropriate follow-up plans as necessary.
• Demonstrate competent skills in therapeutic and cost-effective pharmacologic administration and management.
• Collaborate with medical directors in developing clinical protocols and procedures for outpatient care.
• Participate in departmental Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) efforts.
• Develop and implement formal and informal teaching plans for patients, families, staff, and the community.
• Promote patient- and family-informed decision-making in treatment plans.
• Facilitate the development, implementation, and review of standards of practice, policies, and procedures.
• Complete charting and billable assignments in a timely manner.
• Oversee the clinical involvement of support associates and volunteers during daily clinic operations.
• Participate in the clinical experience of students.
• Respond efficiently to emergency situations.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited Physician Assistant program; Master of Science preferred.
• Current PA license and certification by the NCCPA.
• One year of related clinical experience preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of physical assessment, differential diagnosis, and pathophysiology.
• Must be able to pass colorblind testing to perform point-of-care tests requiring color changes.
• Current AHA BLS Healthcare Provider completion card (prior to start date and maintained).
• Ability to speak and understand the English language.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision in various outpatient settings; self-motivated and demonstrates initiative.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Maintains membership in an applicable national professional organization.
• Participates and promotes public relations events.

Physical and Mental Demands

• Visual acuity and hand/eye coordination to perform clinical tasks.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and stoop for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work in a stressful, public-contact environment with patients and families of various ages, cultures, and socio-economic statuses.
• Extreme flexibility to work variable hours and locations.
• Ability to recognize own limits and consult physicians regarding patient care issues.
• Must be courteous and helpful, treating all people with dignity and respect.
• Ability to concentrate on multiple priority activities and respond efficiently to emergency situations.

Benefits

At Health First, diversity and inclusion are essential for continued growth and evolution. We strive to build and nurture a culture that recognizes, encourages, and respects diverse voices, perspectives, and backgrounds, fostering innovation and collaboration.

Schedule

Per Diem

Pay

Paygrade: PG-PG-APP